Tikka Masala Mac and Cheese Recipe: Creamy Fusion Comfort Food

Transform your classic mac and cheese into a flavor-packed fusion dish with this Tikka Masala Mac and Cheese recipe. This creamy comfort food gets a delicious Indian twist with tikka masala sauce, crumbled paneer, and toasted cashews. Perfect for a cozy night in or impressing your guests!

Ingredients:

2 cups elbow macaroni

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups milk

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup tikka masala sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup crumbled paneer

1/2 cup toasted cashews

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is golden and bubbly. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, and continue cooking until the sauce thickens.

Add the Cheese and Sauce: Reduce heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Mix in the tikka masala sauce until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated.

Add Paneer and Cashews: Gently fold in the crumbled paneer and toasted cashews, reserving a few cashews for garnish.

Serve and Garnish: Serve the Tikka Masala Mac and Cheese hot, garnished with the reserved toasted cashews and fresh cilantro if desired.